1. We have the right to be full members of your family. We thrive on social interaction, praise and love.

2. We have the right to stimulation. We need new games, new toys, new experiences, and new smells to be happy.

3. We have the right to regular excerise. Without it, we could become hyper, sluggish or fat.

4. We have the right to have fun. We enjoy acting like clowns now and then; don't expect us to be predictable all the time.

5. We have the right to quality health care. Please stay good friends with our vet!

6. We have the right to a proper diet. Like some people, we don't know what's best for us. We depend on you.

7. We have the right not to be rejected because of your expectations that we be great show dogs, watchdogs, hunters, or babysitters.

8. We have the right to receive proper training. Otherwise, our good relationship could be marred by confusion and strife and we could become dangerous to ourselves and others.

9. We have the right to guidance and correction based on understanding and compassion, rather than abuse.

10. We have the right to live with dignity...and to die with dignity when the time comes.

A Dog's TEN Wishes!

1. My life is likely to last 10-15 years. Any separation from you is likely to be painful.

2. Give me time to understand what you want of me.

3. Place your trust in me. It is crucial for my well-being.

4. Don't be angry with me for long and don't lock me up as punishment. You have your work, your friends,
your entertainments, but I have only you.

5. Talk to me. Even if I don't understand your words, I do understand your voice when speaking to me.

6. Be aware that however you treat me, I will never forget it.

7. Before you hit me, before you strike me, remember that I could hurt you, and yet, I choose not to
bite you.

8. Before you scold me for being lazy or uncooperative, ask yourself if something might be bothering me.
Perhaps I'm not getting the right food, I have been in the sun too long, or my heart might be getting old or weak.

9. Please take care of me when I grow old. You too, will grow old.

10. On the ultimate difficult journey, go with me please. Never say you can't bear to watch. Don't make
me face this alone. Everything is easier for me if you are there, because I love you so.

Take a moment today to thank God for your pets.
Enjoy and take good care of them.
Life would be a much duller, less joyful experience without God's critters~
We do not have to wait for Heaven, to be surrounded by hope, love, and joyfulness.
It is here on earth and has four legs!

Considering Euthanasia?

Despite tremendous advances in veterinary medicine, many people still face the difficult decision to euthanize a geriatric or seriously ill pet.

According to American Humane (Denver), approximately 9.6 million animals are euthanized annually in the United States.

While some are put down due to overcrowding in shelters, others are euthanized due to sickness, injury or age.

Some compan­ions die naturally, without the need for human inter­vention. Others suffer, no longer able to enjoy their lives. As their guardians and caregivers, we must be prepared to intervene.

Pomerance suggests five points that owners should consider when trying to decide whether to end an aging pet's life

1- Can the pet walk on its own? How much pain does the pet experi­ence when walking?

2- How well can the pet see and hear? What are the prospects of these senses improving?

3- Is there irreversible and/or life impairing organ damage?

4- Is humane veterinary treatment available?

5- Is incontinence an unsolvable problem?

If the answers to these questions lead the owner to believe that his or her pet is suffering, euthanasia may be the most compassionate, humane decision.

THANK YOU for stopping by and visiting.

About once a week or so I will write a pet related article or alerts about food recalls, new over the counter medication, proposed pet laws etc. The alerts and news items will be in the E-mail, most lengthy articles will be linked back to my web-site. If you would like to get an E-mail notification, I would appreciated very much if you would sign up and give me permission to E-mail you.